Students 'promise' to make safe choices during prom

Wednesday

May 23, 2007 at 4:04 AM

by Kristin CasaleReporterStow -- "That was probably the hardest drive I've ever had in my life," Stow-Munroe Falls High School senior Dan Robinson after driving a golf cart wearing "drunk goggles" May 18.The exercise simulated what it is like to drive under the influence of alcohol, and it was part of a "Prom Promise" assembly designed to encourage students to make responsible choices during the prom, which took place May 19.Aside from driving golf carts, students saw a magic show that incorporated information about the consequences of making unsafe choices during the prom.The seniors also had the opportunity to sign a banner near the gym and pledge to make responsible decisions."As you go into this weekend, it will be one of the most fun weekends of the entire year, but unfortunately, some people choose to do things that are less healthy," 12th-grade Unit Principal Wayne Ruman told the seniors before the "Prom Promise" activities began.Principal Rick Bailey said the assembly is meant to caution students while allowing them to have a fun experience. During the presentation, he told the seniors he believed they would behave responsibly during the prom."I just want to tell you how proud I am of you as a class," said Bailey. "Take the high road out of here with your heads held high. You have done it right all the way through. Finish out the right way."Magician Stephen Dixon encouraged seniors to stay safe during the prom, explaining the difference between illusions and delusions during his magic show."An illusion changes how you see things," he said. "A delusion is when you fool yourself."A wrecked car was placed in the high school parking lot so students could see what could happen if they drink and drive.Senior Hannah Davis said seeing the car reinforced her decision not to drink and drive."They're trying to help us out and keep us safe," she said. "The car creeps me out."Some students who drove the golf carts exited the vehicles feeling disoriented after completing the course.Robinson described the experience as "something else," stating he did not expect driving with the goggles to be so difficult.Senior Rob Mulholland also had trouble with the course."[The drive] was pretty ridiculous," he said. "I think it's great to teach people not to be stupid."Senior Amanda Conley was among the group of students who signed the "Prom Promise" banner."We don't want to be in an accident," she said while standing with her friends during the program.Senior Jessica Johnston, who also signed the banner, agreed."Don't throw your life away for something stupid," she said.Katie Daugherty, who volunteered to help with the assembly, said she thinks the "Prom Promise" program is important."It promotes not drinking and taking drugs," she said. "You get to see what happens to people who drink and drive. It's better to be safe than sorry."E-mail: kcasale@recordpub.comPhone: 330-686-3917